How To Fix WI509 - Position the cursor on a work item

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: WI - BPT Workflow: Messages from Info System

• Message number: 509

• Message text: Position the cursor on a work item

Self-Explanatory Message

Since SAP believes that this specific error message is 'self-explanatory,' no more information has been given.The majority of messages in the SAP system have a message text, however this is frequently insufficient to comprehend or resolve the problem.

To make things easier, more detailed information is frequently added to describe the issue, how to fix it, and the necessary steps or configuration modifications.

Unfortunately, there isn't any extra information in this error notice.

What else can you do?

First, use our AnswerBot below to get a possible cause and solution (requires a premium subscription).

Also, review the in-depth Common Questions & Answers listed below; you could discover a solution there or be able to connect with others who have faced similar challenges.

You can also try searching the SAP support portal (support.sap.com) but you need a special user ID to access it. It is possible that an SAP support note exists that provides additional details about the mistake or even steps for fixing it.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message WI509 - Position the cursor on a work item ?

  Certainly! Here's a detailed explanation regarding the SAP error message WI509: "Position the cursor on a work item":
  
  SAP Error Message: WI509 - "Position the cursor on a work item"
  
  Cause:
  This error occurs when you try to perform an action on a work item in the SAP Workflow inbox or task list without first selecting or positioning the cursor on a specific work item. Essentially, the system expects you to highlight or place the cursor on a particular work item before executing commands like display, change, or process.
  
  When does it typically occur?
  
  When you open the SAP Workflow inbox (transaction code SBWP or SWI1) and try to execute an action (e.g., display, forward, or complete a task) without selecting a work item.
  When using workflow-related transactions or reports that require a work item context.
  When using custom programs or user interfaces that interact with workflow tasks but do not pass the correct work item reference.
  
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Select a Work Item:
  
  Before performing any action, make sure to click on or highlight the specific work item in the list.
  The cursor must be positioned on the work item row you want to process.
  
  
  
  Use the Correct Interface:
  
  Use the SAP standard workflow inbox (SBWP) or the transaction SWI1 to view and select work items.
  Ensure that your custom programs or user interfaces correctly pass the work item ID to the processing logic.
  
  
  
  Check for UI Issues:
  
  Sometimes, UI issues or custom enhancements might prevent proper selection. Verify that the UI is working correctly.
  If using custom developments, debug to ensure the work item ID is correctly retrieved and passed.
  
  
  
  If Using SAP GUI:
  
  Simply click once on the work item line to select it before clicking any action buttons.
  
  
  
  
  Additional Information:
  
  
  Transaction Codes:
  
  SBWP – SAP Business Workplace (Workflow Inbox)
  SWI1 – Work Item Selection
  SWI5 – Work Item Display
  
  
  
  Related Notes and Documentation:
  
  SAP Note 0000000 (check SAP Service Marketplace for specific notes related to WI509)
  SAP Workflow documentation on handling work items and inbox processing.
  
  
  
  Common Scenario:
  
  A user opens the inbox, sees multiple work items, but tries to process a task without selecting it first, triggering WI509.
  
  
  
  
  Summary:
  WI509 is a prompt reminding the user to select a work item before performing workflow-related actions. The fix is straightforward: always position the cursor on the desired work item before proceeding.
  
  If you need help with a specific scenario or custom program related to this error, please provide more details!